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Longoria 2010 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Rancho Santa Rosa Vineyard

I’ve been a fan of winemaker Richard Longoria for two decades, and he never fails to impress me with his outstanding vineyard-designated Pinots. I loved the floral and dark ripe berry aromas on this deeply hued wine. It’s big and spicy yet beautifully balanced by notes of tangy wild blackberries, plums, black cherries, and earth. It’s a prime example of the Sta. Rita Hills wine appellation, and it’s as delicious on its own as it is with food. Pair this with special meals like prime rib, filet mignon with mushrooms, or rack of lamb. It will reward those who cellar it for five or more years but it will irresistibly call to you to come drink it. An excellent buy for the quality—even at $45—it’s available at Longoria’s tasting rooms in Los Olivos and Lompoc. Or you can taste it during the upcoming WOPN festival.